1970s
The decade from January 1, 1970, through December 31, 1979, marked by major political realignments, economic shocks, and cultural change.
Watergate scandal: A political scandal that led to U.S. President Richard Nixon’s resignation in 1974. Its investigation and aftermath reshaped trust in American government during the decade.
Stagflation: The combination of high inflation, slow economic growth, and high unemployment. Many industrial economies struggled with this mix during the decade.
Disco: A dance-music genre built around steady beats, orchestral textures, and club culture. Its popularity made nightlife and dance central to the decade’s sound.
1960s: The decade from January 1, 1960, through December 31, 1969. The 1970s inherited its protest movements while confronting the aftermath of 1960s upheavals.
Civil rights movement: A movement to end racial discrimination and secure equal rights, especially for Black Americans. Its legal victories and unfinished aims shaped activism and policy in the 1970s.
1973 oil crisis: An oil embargo by Arab members of OAPEC that triggered shortages and rising prices in 1973. It made energy dependence a defining political and economic issue.
Neoliberalism: A political-economic approach favoring markets, privatization, and reduced state intervention. Its rise gathered momentum amid the decade’s economic crises.
Punk rock: A stripped-down rock movement marked by fast songs, raw sound, and anti-establishment expression. Its DIY ethos offered a sharp alternative to polished mainstream music.
1980s: The decade from January 1, 1980, through December 31, 1989. The following decade brought a stronger turn toward conservative politics and market-oriented policy.
Stonewall riots: A series of 1969 protests against a police raid on the Stonewall Inn in New York City. They helped catalyze the gay liberation activism that grew during the decade.